The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approach to Nigeria’s growing security challenges, accusing him of lacking seriousness in addressing the issue. The opposition party alleges that the president is more focused on political events and appearances, while Nigerians continue to suffer from attacks across the country.
In a statement, the ADC described President Tinubu’s recent comments on uniting Nigerians as “mere political talk,” saying his actions do not demonstrate a genuine understanding of what unity entails. The party cited the spread of insecurity across several states, where ordinary citizens are forced to pay ransoms to armed groups, as a reflection of a total failure of governance. The ADC blamed the presidency for failing to acknowledge or respond to these crises.
The party expressed concern that President Tinubu continues to attend political and social gatherings, despite deadly attacks in states like Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, and Zamfara. This, the ADC said, suggests that the president prioritizes image over the safety of citizens. The party also recalled the killing of hundreds in Plateau State earlier in the year, which did not prompt a visit from the president. According to the ADC, President Tinubu’s claims of progress against insecurity are a denial of the reality faced by Nigerians daily.
The ADC argued that President Tinubu’s promise to unite the country is hollow, given his policies and silence on critical issues have divided Nigerians further. The party emphasized that symbolic gestures, such as attending church events or wearing traditional outfits, are insufficient substitutes for real leadership and compassion.
To address the security crisis, the ADC urged the federal government to take concrete steps, including acknowledging the true scale of the problem, working closely with affected states and communities, and improving national security coordination. The party also called for regular publication of reports on security operations and outcomes, as well as transparency in the use of security funds.
The ADC emphasized that Nigeria is under attack and that the government must stop treating insecurity as a political issue. The party stressed that the lives of Nigerians should matter more than “soundbites and ceremonies,” and that this is a time for real leadership, urgency, and measurable results. With the country facing a grave security crisis, the federal government’s response will be closely watched by Nigerians and the international community.
